Tools
United Kingdom or Continent, Europe
1690-1730
Silver; Iron; Steel
1955.0136.079
Object Number1955.0136.079 |
Tool (for needlework) (Needle and thimble case)
Tools
Gift of Henry Francis du Pont
United Kingdom or Continent, Europe
Probably European or Scandinavian. See "Notes."
1690-1730
Silver; Iron; Steel
3.5 (L) , 0.87 (W)
8.89 (L) , 2.22 (W)
Overall length is with silver ring. Per previous cataloguer. SRAL XRF test on April 22, 1975: Silver 84.22%, Copper 3.97%, Gold 0.30%, Lead 0.24%, Nickel 0.08%.
This delicately engraved case opens at the bottom to store sewing needles and at the top to hold a thimble. The loop at the top made it possible to suspend it from a chain or cord to connect to a chatelaine or belt hook on a woman’s gown. Ornamented silver tools with specific functions like this were items of value and status. Although unmarked, the silver's purity standard (about 84%) suggests it originated in Europe or perhaps Scandinavia.
[Book] Rogers, Gay Ann. 1983 An Illustrated History of Needlework Tools.
• pg 65-68